Help Protect Farm Animals in Massachusetts

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Massachusetts is currently considering legislation that would bring about improved changes to some of the standard industry practices used in the state with the Massachusetts Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act (H458/S786).

There are currently thousands of animals who spend their lives in cages and crates so small they can’t even enjoy the simple pleasures of moving, stretching or turning around. Despite its inherent cruelty, intensive confinement of egg-laying hens in battery cages, calves in veal crates and sows in gestation crates continues to cause suffering to animals who are forced to live on large-scale farms.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by representative Jason Lewis and Senator Katherine Clark , would end the cruel practice of intensive confinement for sows and calves, sows and egg-laying hens by banning gestation crates, veal crates and battery cages and imposing “a penalty for the confinement of farm animals in a manner that does not allow them to turn around freely, lie down, stand up, and fully extend their limbs.”

Violations would result in a misdemeanor with a fine up to $1000, up to 180 days in jail, or both.

According to a joint letter released by the animal advocacy groups that support this legislation, “there is overwhelming support for farm animal welfare in Massachusetts. For example, 89 percent of voters said they would support legislation to prohibit intensive confinement systems. H458/S786 will protect our local agricultural brand, local family farmers, and the animals under our care; while preserving consumers’ interest in the well-being of farm animals.”

I would have to agree with James S. There are many amazing vegetarian dishes out there. I went to India for a three-week vacation and came back absolutely IN LOVE with the rich spices and refreshing flavours that launch a set of fireworks in my mouth in every single bite. I took that experience home with me, and if you really look, you'll find some healthy, delicious food out there that won't go against your conscience. It's totally possible to have both!

Tammy - there are so many vegan foods that taste great. The choices aren't limited to the one item you mentioned. Here's what will make one gag and then some - a trip to a modern farm or slaughterhouse.

I also do believe animals should be treated with the same compassion we humans expect. I will still eat meat. Possibly less and normally more organic . But I have to fill up. ANd when I eat I will not get filled up if I eat that which causes me to gag. Have you ever tried eating soy breakfast links? You will gag! I know I did till I spit it out. I will eat meat for this reason. I don't care what anyone thinks either. Let him or her gag all they want. As for me I will eat.

I'm grateful for all who do a part to end factory farming. We see that big agriculture is incredibly wealthy and powerful. They have major influence on elected officials who turn away from these unbelievable torture chambers. They influence many who have the ability to make change. This is a case where the public can take matters into their own hands by cutting down on or stopping the consumption of animals and animal products. A problem so huge and seemingly hopeless, can be remedied by the people, with such simple actions! For example, look at NYC - there are vegan foods everywhere and most would thrive on them since most don't have issues with plant digestion and certainly have the ways and means; however, they're scarfing down all kinds of animals and animal products. As long as demand stays the same or increases, factory farming will continue, until the overall destruction becomes too obvious for all. Also, for the most part, a well balanced, vegan diet will have you feeling and looking great, if you belong to the overwhelming majority of humans who can process and have means to such foods. It seems that every day, we see another person thriving on a vegan foods - Anne Hathaway is the latest. Yeah, all the physical exertion and training was fueled by vegan foods. Previously, she was vegetarian. She says that she now feels so great that she's dropping all animal products. Arian Foster is another. He's one of the best running backs in football - he needs to b

Animals should be treated in a humane manner and allowed comfort. It is very cruel to keep them confined in small spaces or cages. Being denied room to move around or stretch is inhumane. How would we humans like to like live like that ???? Animals deserve so much better . Its time for things to change. Ban confinement now.

Animals are sacrificed so we can eat, the abuse and torture are absolutely unnecessary. the people who torture and abuse animals probably do the same with humans, they should be carefully investigated and punished for all their crimes.

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Julie M. Rodriguez is an arts, green living, and political writer based in San Mateo, CA. Her work has appeared in xoJane, Care2 Causes, Greener Ideal, and Inhabitat. Follow her on Twitter @julierwrites. less